Volume 16 • No. 23 • December 1 -15, 2020 Publication Mailing Account #41721512
Rabiya Mateo
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Lito Taruc, beloved CKJS newscaster signs off Lito Taruc, veteran newscaster on CKJS Radio’s daily show, Good Morning Philippines, succumbed to a heart attack on November 17, 2020. He was 62 years old. Lito was born on June 29, 1958 in Gapan, Nueva Ecija, Philippines. He moved to Winnipeg in 1979 and worked for almost two decades at Versatile farm equipment manufacturer before joining CKJS in 1997 as the news director. Brother of late DZRH news anchor, Joe Taruc, in the Philippines, Lito was also a trusted voice in media here in Canada. As the news director of Good Morning Philippines, Lito developed a keen desire to serve the community. Most prominent as a past President of the Philippine Association of Manitoba Inc. (PAM) and President of the Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba (PCCM), Lito also served as President of the Radyo 27 CB Club of Winnipeg, President of the See LITO p15
Lito Taruc
Winnipeg-Filipino movie gets VOD release The hit Winnipeg-Filipino movie, I Propose We Never See Each Other Again After Tonight, is now showing on several Video On Demand (VOD) outlets on. Audiences are now able to watch the movie from the safety of their own homes on Rogers, Shaw, Telus, Bell, Vubiquity, Cogeco, iTunes, Sony, Cineplex, and Google. Hoopla will also release the film on December 29th. The film, with a cast of mainly Winnipeg Filipino actors, including Hera Nalam, Andrea Macasaet, and Mithus Mallari, has become this year’s
come-from-behind success story – despite having no marketing budget in the midst of a pandemic and cinemas being shut down for a second time across the country. The movie was originally set for theatrical release last March but was delayed due to the first pandemic lockdown. When it was finally released in August, it spent its first three weeks as one of “Canada’s Top Five Canadian Box Office Successes” in Playback magazine. It was held over for 10 consecutive weeks at the Cineplex Northgate and eight weeks at the Cineplex McGillivray in Winnipeg, seven
weeks in Edmonton, and five weeks at Canada Square in Toronto. In total, the movie was screened at 19 cinemas in 17 See VOD p8
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Celebrating the holiday season in a pandemic Christmas and COVID. Pasko during a pandemic. Never before in modern times has there ever been the consideration of these two things together. Yet, as we head into the month of December, we are hearing messages from the Canadian government and health officials of a dark winter ahead, limiting contacts to members of your household only and hence, celebrating the holiday season apart from many family and friends. During these uncertain and sometimes dark times, one can ask, “where do we find glimmers of hope? Can we still find joy?” If there is ever a time when I am grateful for the work that I do, it is now. As a psychotherapist who works with people diagnosed with serious illnesses and their families, I have the privilege of hearing many stories. When people tell me of their struggles, losses and fears, I also hear about stories of love, resilience, and hope. They have taught me lessons about humanity and share with me their pearls of wisdom, some of which I want to share with you. So how does one get through difficult times when there is so much uncertainty? • “One Step at a Time, One Day at a Time” – It sounds so simple, but people tend to get
overwhelmed when they try to anticipate all of the possible problems and outcomes. We can lose our motivation to get up every day if we try to think days, weeks, or months ahead. So take a breath and think about what you have to get accomplished for today. • “Live in the Moment” – It is said that depression happens when one regrets the past and that anxiety happens when one worries about the future. To find a sense of calm, one must live in the present moment as much as possible. Take the time to focus on deep breathing and light stretching. When you do tasks such as washing dishes, do you notice the temperature and sound of the water flowing? When you walk up stairs or through snow, do you feel the weight of each step or listen to the crunch of the snow? The busyness of life can take away these simple opportunities to take a break. • “This is not a sprint, it’s a marathon” – It is becoming more clear that the pandemic will last for months more, at the very least. So preparing ourselves for the long road ahead requires that we train for it. Be diligent about getting enough sleep, rise at the same time each day, exercise daily for at least 30 minutes, have a healthy diet, get fresh air, call
or video chat with friends and family, pray or meditate regularly, and engage in a hobby or creative activity to relieve stress. • “Turn down the noise” One factor that contributes to the amount of COVID fatigue that we feel is hearing about it everywhere. We talk with our family, friends, and colleagues about it. News and social media are constantly giving reports and providing commentary. Also, people are able to comment on posts, which can often turn into a lot of negativity and even arguing online. Also, be aware of how you feel after watching a movie or series. Even if it is unrelated to the pandemic, if it leaves you feeling anxious, fearful or sad, it may not be the time to watch it. For example, someone told me that it was difficult to watch Titanic on TV, a movie that she has watched before. There is a lot of stress going on in her life right now, so she decided that watching comedies and nature documentaries is currently good for her mental health. • “Feel the Feelings then Gratitude, gratitude, gratitude” – One way to deal with uncertainty is to make small amounts of time to process or talk about feelings, and then move on. So talking or journaling about worries for a short time can actually make it
easier to turn towards positivity and hope. An additional step that often improves mood is to list all of the things that you are thankful for, big or small. • “This too shall pass” - As Dr. Teresa Tam said in an interview on The National on November 24th, “We will always see the end of a pandemic. No pandemic doesn’t have an ending.” Reflecting on this can provide hope and steel ourselves to keep ourselves and others safe. • “Find meaning and purpose by serving others” – Where there is suffering, you will always find helpers, so take a look and you will find them. One thing that the COVID-19 pandemic does not have to take away from us this holiday season is moving towards Peace on Earth and Goodwill Toward Humankind. With privilege and rights come responsibility. And for this holiday season, that includes wearing masks and staying apart from our loved ones. We do this now so that we can have happy holiday seasons ahead of us for years to come. From my family to yours, I wish for you a safe, happy, and healthy Holiday Season! Cheryl Dizon-Reynante is a licensed therapist with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.
Finding ways to bend so that we don’t break I’d like to start this article with a message of gratitude to the members of ANAK. Thank you, thank you, thank you. To say that 2020 was a challenging year would be a gross understatement. The entire world and its global economies have been brought to almost a standstill, and all over the world people have dramatically adjusted their lives to flatten the curve and keep the COVID-19 global pandemic at bay. Here at ANAK Inc., we have had to regroup and try new ways of reaching our youth. Most of our outreach went online. Although we were unsure of how it would be received, being able to reach youth over platforms like Zoom and Google Meet allowed us to reach a wider group of people thus allowing our network of Filipino-Canadian youth, organizations, and allies alike to grow exponentially. We worked with Action Dignity’s Youth Place and Fiesta Filipino’s
Youth Empowerment Program in Calgary to check-in on some of the youth and discuss mental wellness. We collaborated with Bahaghari in Calgary, Rise Tribe in Toronto, and UGAT in Edmonton to put together the Anti-Racism Forum for Filipinx Canadians. Our biggest collaboration to date was done in joining the Kapti-Bisig Youth Network, a national network of Filipino youth and student led organizations. Through this network, we combined our efforts to create a national survey that would help identify the needs of Filipino-Canadian youth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our organization decided that this year’s annual ANAK Liwayway Scholarship for Leadership Excellence would explore topics pertaining to mental health. We asked applicants to examine how open dialogue about mental wellness, in family and in community, impacts the way Filipinos engage
globally, especially in light of world events. Kyla Russella M. Soriano (J. H. Bruns Collegiate) and Lyn Roshan Dalit (Sisler High School) each received a $500 scholarship for their post-secondary studies, with honourable mentions also awarded to Lea Darlyn Lopez Martin (Sisler High School) and Yuan Jairus Mistas Garcia (Miles Macdonell Collegiate). Congrats to all of the award recipients and to all of the graduates that we met during this process. You all have a bright future ahead of you. If there’s anything that 2020 has taught us, it is that building a strong community helps to make us strong as individuals. We are Kapuwa. The care that we show to each other during these unprecedented times will be what ensures our survival. Vizlumin Cabrera is the Director of Development for ANAK. Visit www.anak.ca to learn more about ANAK
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Lyn Roshan Dalit receiving her award, autumn 2020 programs, opportunities, and ways you can get involved or support youth. You can also find us on Instagram @anakwinnipeg or Facebook @ANAK.ca
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The sponsorship of spouse and partners has been delayed over the past year. The numbers of sponsors and applicants have increased drastically and there have even been public protests. The reunification of families continues to be a priority for the Canadian government. Minister Mendicino promised that his department is aware of the processing backlog for family sponsorship and they have been working to correct the situation. The numbers of sponsorships finalized are increasing with 4,000 finalized in September 2020, double the number of 2,000 processed in July. Both the inCanada and overseas family class applications have seen significant improvements. The totals from July through September can be seen in the table on this page. In-land applications finalized rose from 1,200 in July to nearly 2,000 in September. The overseas processing saw an even greater
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increase from 800 in July to nearly 2,000 in September. We should expect with the IRCC announcements to see the numbers increase more over the coming the months. Canadian citizens and permanent residents are eligible to sponsor their spouse, commonlaw partner or conjugal partner. Spouses must be legally married and at least 18 years of age. Common-law partners must have lived with the sponsor for one continuous year. Conjugal partners must be in a married-like relationship for one year but were unable to live together as commonlaw partners because of exceptional circumstances, such as an immigration barrier. The sponsors must be at least 18 years of age, not on social assistance for a reason other than a disability, not have an un-discharged bankruptcy nor owe money to the federal government, not have certain types of criminal convictions and show they can
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Canada is processing more spousal/partner applications
meet the basic financial needs of their partners. Canadian citizens overseas can start the sponsorship but must show that they have a real intention to return to Canada to live with the sponsored person. If you are planning on sponsoring a spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner, make sure that you download the specific Document Checklist for the relationship along with the entire application package. You must pay the processing and biometric fees up front and that can include the Right of Permanent Residence
fee as part of the initial payment, or pay it later upon request. It is important to note that in addition to the eligibility requirements for the Canadian sponsors, the foreign applicant must be admissible to Canada, normally based upon criminality, health and security. If you have questions about family class sponsorships, you can follow the online information provided by IRCC or contact an immigration lawyer or a licensed immigration consultant. If you are one of the sponsors or applicants in the processing cue, my
recommendation is patience. IRCC is working its way through a deep backlog and will be contacting you in due course. Michael Scott is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC, R525678) who has 30 years of experience with Canada Immigration and the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program. He currently works as a licensed consultant with R.B. Global Immigration Consultants Ltd. 204-691-1166 or 204-2270292. E-mail: mscott.ici@gmail. com.
Sump pump lids Water management strategies that help mitigate excessive water from accumulating in a home’s foundation often involve the installation of a sump in the basement or crawlspace. The sump is a small pit that extends through the floor slab and into the ground beneath to provide drainage containment for excess water. Accumulated water in the foundation can cause interior damage and promote the growth of mould, mildew, and fungus. Sump pumps should be regularly checked and maintained as per manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure reliable operation. The sump pit should be provided with an airtight lid to prevent additional water management issues and poor indoor air quality. Sumps typically have standing water, so if the sump pit is uncovered or has an improperly sealed lid, water will evaporate into the home that can cause high relative humidity. Having a
relative humidity of more than 50 per cent inside the house can encourage mould growth and elevated moisture levels in wood framings. Open or loose-fitting sump pumps can also permit radon and other soil gases to infiltrate the interior spaces. Radon is a radioactive and carcinogenic gas that originates from the breakdown of uranium found in soil and rock. In high-radon areas, if soil gases are permitted to infiltrate the home, it can accumulate at potentially toxic levels. The sump pump should be installed as per manufacturer’s specifications. Sump pump lids should be made of robust plastic or other rigid material (such as metal sheet) and be capable of providing airtight sealing with gaskets installed. The sump pump lid should have integrated sealing grommets for electrical wiring and a water discharge pipe. If the sump is installed in a concrete floor slab, there should
be caulk around its pit. If the sump is installed in a crawlspace with a dirt floor covered by a vapour barrier, there should be approved vapour barrier tape installed around the rim. A sump pump is installed to
minimize accumulated water in a home. There are various models and types available on the market, but they all monitor the water level to prevent the water to go above a pre-set level and allow moisture intrusion or house
damage. Although most sump pumps are useful in eliminating excessive water, they should be covered with an airtight lid to avoid moisture problems and radon infiltration into the home. Norman Aceron Garcia, P.Eng. is an accredited professional in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design specializing in Building Design + Construction. In 2015, Norman founded Mr. Peg Property Inspections, a social enterprise that advocates green building design and climate change adaptation strategies.
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Turning our minds to compassion The Conference Board of Canada partnered with the Mental Health Commission of Canada to explore the impact of COVID-19 on mental health between April 27 and May 25, 2020. They conducted a “mental health pulsecheck where they gathered data from 1,804 Canadians related to pro-social, at-risk and the coping strategies that they used. They measured 15 mental health concerns such as financial health, employment situation, alcohol/ drug use, isolation/loneliness, maintaining a relationship and overall mental well-being to name a few. The survey reported that mindfulness was the only coping strategy that positively impacted all 15 areas. The study also reported that 84 per cent of the respondents indicated that their mental health concerns worsened since the onset of COVID-19. Four mental health concerns namely family, well-being, one’s future, isolation/loneliness, and anxiousness/fear came out as the biggest concerns reported by the respondents. The results pretty much speak for themselves. In this era of COVID-19, mental health may be the next widespread crisis that we all need to prepare for. Given the ever-evolving nature of the global situation, we experience varying degrees of reaction to certain stressful triggers. There is no doubt that most of us find it very easy to be judgmental these days. However, we rarely think about the need to offer understanding and compassion towards our coworkers and people in general. What is compassion? It is the act of empathizing for those who are suffering or going through difficult times. COVID-19 has certainly
brought on a lot of difficulty and suffering to all human beings regardless of age, status and geographical location. Each and every person in the world is affected. Accept that people cope in different ways A few days ago a colleague of mine invited me over for coffee at her condo. She lives alone and she has no family in the city. She even reminded me that people who live alone are allowed to have a visitor in Manitoba. However, my coping mechanism is very different from hers. She copes better with companions and socialization, whereas I cope by mitigating the risk of spread. For me, I cope by maintaining my current social bubble. As a response to the invitation, instead of saying flat out “no,” I politely said that perhaps it would be more appropriate for us to get together when the situation gets better. My colleague’s attempt in inviting me over is not an attempt to be rude or insensitive to the situation and I certainly did not interpret it that way. Being isolated for months with no family or companion is very tough on mental health, which is why accepting the way we cope and the way others cope are important ways to help us turn our minds to compassion. Accept the fact that we may have to be flexible to others’ needs COVID-19 has impacted a lot of schools, caregivers, and childcare facilities. Some have had to shorten their hours, limit their space or even close until further notice. It is a known fact that parents all over Canada struggle with child care interruptions and as a result, this new reality also impacts productivity at work. Therefore,
it would be unreasonable to put pressure on a person just because their parenting situation has changed. Instead of getting annoyed that you have to pick up the slack because a co-worker has to constantly leave early to pick up their child, turning your mind to compassion perhaps means adjusting to the situation so you can work together during this stressful time. There is a lot of uncertainty
around us during these unprecedented times. There is really not much we can do but let the situation run its course. Compassion is not only for others but for us as well. While stress is completely normal, we should not let it take over. Be kind and compassionate to yourself. Source https://www. conferenceboard.ca/focusareas/health/how-has-covid-19-
impacted-canadians-mental-heal th?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupp ort=1 This article is intended for information purposes only and not to be considered as professional advice. Michele Majul-Ibarra, IPMA-ACP holds an Advanced Certified HR Professional Designation with the International Personnel Management Association.
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COVID-19 vaccines in sight, masks onwards December 1, 2020 – More so now, with vaccines in clear sight, that vigilance on life-saving public health measures, like wearing a facemask, should be sustained. Slowing community transmission of the COVID virus with such measures would ultimately: • minimize the number of Canadians falling ill to COVID-19 and losing their lives; • prevent overwhelming the hospitals and intensive care units; and • prevent burnout among nurses, doctors, and other frontline health-care workers; These shall be our collective pledge; these shall propel our collective endeavour as we confront the pandemic resurgence. Update on the human toll Total cases: • World – 61,165,357 • Canada – 357,099 • USA – 12,895,752 • Philippines – 425,918 Total deaths: • World – 1,435,374 • Canada – 11,819 • USA – 263,525 • Philippines – 8,255 – Johns Hopkins University Coronavirus Tracker, 27 November 2020. Come Tuesday December 8, the pandemic will have reached the one-year mark since it started as a cluster of atypical pneumonia of unknown pathogen in Wuhan City, China. Since then, more than 61 million citizens have fallen ill to COVID-19 and nearly 1.5 million have died globally. In the USA total cases are
fast approaching 13 million and deaths are now over a quarter of a million. Canada shares its longest land border and air space with the USA and has maintained a reciprocal ban on land travel since March of this year, except for essential purposes. Canada has since had slightly over a third of a million cases and over 11,000 deaths. In the Philippines, the total patients diagnosed are coming closer to half a million, of whom more than 8,000 have lost their lives. Contrasting headlines The top stories of the past month have coalesced into two contrasting sets of headlines: 1. the worsening pandemic in almost all parts of the world, Canada included; and 2. the imminent arrival of two vaccines by way of Emergency Use Authorization – the Pfizer-GermanBioNTech and Moderna in the US – and possibly a third from Oxford University/ AstraZeneca in the United Kingdom. Vaccines in sight On November 27, Rachel Aiello of CTV News reported on Prime Minister Trudeau’s announcement that “former NATO commander Major-General Dany Fortin will be leading Canada’s vaccine distribution efforts.” The day before, she reported on the announcement by Health Canada’s chief medical adviser Dr. Sharma, that approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for use in Canada could come “along the same pre-Christmas timeline as the American and European health
agencies,” that is, on December 10th. Apparently, the US Food and Drug Administration has scheduled its meeting on the same date to decide whether to give Pfizer’s vaccine the all-clear, with a decision on Moderna to follow soon. Public health measure and advice Focus: Notwithstanding the uplifting news on vaccines, the grim headlines on the resurgence of cases across Canada and on more restrictive measures ordered by provincial and city governments bring me to underscore the theme I shared in my last commentary. That is to follow life-saving public health advice as we wait for the anticipated rollout of the vaccines. Measures: Indeed, we still need in the meantime to physically distance, wash our hands with soap and water frequently or use hand sanitizers, avoid handshakes and touching our faces, avoid large gatherings, and wear a facemask. Science-based evidence Seven observational and epidemiological studies validate the efficacy of facemasks in reducing the emission of virusladen droplets and the inhalation of these droplets by the wearer. The big droplets are heavier, travel a short distance of less than six feet, and fall on surfaces or are inhaled by another person within that distance. The smaller droplets, also called aerosols, are lighter, travel a longer distance, linger in the air for some time before falling on surfaces or inhaled by another person within
the vicinity. This is the scenario among the infected and non-infected persons. It occurs when we attend a concert, participate in or listen to a choir, sing, shout or engage in a group or one-to-one private conversation with our family and circle of friends. Scientific cavalry Alluding to Pfizer-BioNTech’s and Moderna’s forthcoming applications for emergency use authorization for their vaccines as “the cavalry,” US top and trusted pandemic expert, Dr. Anthony Fauci said recently, “If you’re fighting a battle and the cavalry is on the way, you don’t stop shooting; you keep going until the cavalry gets here, and then you might even want to continue fighting.” Referring a week later to the third vaccine candidate, Oxford University/AstraZeneca, and other therapeutic breakthroughs as the “scientific cavalry,” UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson echoed the same sentiments in similar language. “We can hear the drumming hooves of the cavalry coming over the brow of the hill, but they are not here yet.” Unanswered questions about vaccinations and masks Dr. Larry Corey, a leader of the COVID-19 Prevention Network and a Professor of Medicine at the University of Washington, made the following observations and raised the accompanying questions in his critique, The Messenger RNA Vaccines and Masks, posted on the Johns Hopkins University Coronavirus
Resource Center website: 1. The vaccine clinical trials are not focused on whether a vaccine prevents someone from getting the virus at all. 2. In other words, a COVID-19 vaccine may benefit the individual who gets vaccinated, but the virus may still invade the body and it’s possible that a vaccinated person can still spread the virus to others. 3. Will vaccinated persons be asymptomatic carriers who can still transmit throughout their household, their community, and their school? 4. Will I still have to wear that mask? And the answer to this is: until we know more, yes. 5. Do we need to continue to wear masks with other people around, especially casual acquaintances or strangers? At the moment, the answer is still yes until we unravel these issues. Let us hope the appropriate study is done. Rey D. Pagtakhan, P.C., O.M., LL.D., Sc.D., M.Sc., M.D., is a retired lung specialist and professor and former cabinet minister and Parliamentary Secretary to Canada’s Prime Minister. He did his medical studies and training at the University of the Philippines, Washington University (St. Louis), University of Manitoba and University of Arizona. A widely published writer and lecturer, he spoke on “The Global Threat of Infectious Diseases” at the G-8 Science Ministers/ Advisors Meeting held in Berlin, Germany on June 13 to 15, 2003. reypagtakhan@gmail.com
VOD... From page 1 cities.
“Canadian films usually get chased out of cinemas by a deluge of Hollywood product,” said director, Sean Garrity, “but due to the unusual circumstances of 2020, we were able to hold on to screens long enough to really find our audience.” Garrity also said that the production is now in talks with a Filipino company to play the film in the Philippines. I Propose We Never See Each Other Again After Tonight, features Canadian actors, Hera Nalam, Kristian Jordan, Andrea Macasaet, Mithus Mallari, Elmer Aquino, Mel Hizon, Gio Navarro, Bernie Pastorin, Armie Recuenco, Joy Reyes, and Yasmin Reyes.
Kristian Jordan
Dela Cruz Family, l-r: Elmer Aquino, Andrea Macasaet, Mel Hizon and Mithus Mallari
Hera Nalam as Iris dela Cruz
Andrea Macasaet
Director on set, Sean Garrity
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020
PILIPINO EXPRESS
OBITUARY
Jocelyn "Jayjay" Joaquin Escobido September 24, 1968 ~ November 24, 2020
Peacefully, on November 24, 2020, with family by her side, Jayjay joined her Creator in Heaven. Left to mourn her passing are her husband, Dan, and their only son, Ace. She was predeceased by her father, Atty. Agapito Joaquin, and her mother, Gavina Zapanta-Joaquin. Jayjay also leaves behind her sisters in Winnipeg: Emmie Joaquin, Belinda Lacanilao (Mac); niece Anna Lacanilao; nephew Patrick Lacanilao (Paula) and grand-niece Peyton Lacanilao; Jayjay’s siblings Dr. Arnel Joaquin (Los Angeles), Jon Joaquin, Rhod Joaquin, Ros Joaquin-Canlas, and Allan Joaquin (Philippines). She will be remembered by numerous relatives and friends from Canada, USA, and Philippines. Jayjay was a long-time employee of Canada Life (then Great West Life) where she also met many wonderful colleagues. She and her husband Dan are also active members of Life Group where they share their Christian faith with couples who have been their support system especially during her trying times. The family would like to thank Dr Jesse Marantz, along with Rubby and Jackie from LifeSmart Medical; Dr. James Paul and nurse Nubia Chowdhury (CCMB Medical oncology); Dr. James Butler and nurse Robert Richardson (CCMB Radiation Oncology) for the compassion and care given to her during her brief but courageous battle with stomach cancer. The family also wishes to thank HSC ward GA5 for the wonderful care they have provided to Jayjay during the three weeks she spent there in August while she recovered from a stroke. To her relatives and friends, thank you for your love and support to Jayjay and her family. Your kindness made a world of difference in dealing with Jayjay’s unexpected diagnosis. Due to the current pandemic, the memorial and burial service will be held at a private time at her final resting place at Thomson “In the Park” Funeral Home with Pastor John Neufeld officiating. Please check our website for updates on the dates and time of the live streaming service.
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
Sa kabila ng kaniyang kagandahan, kaseksihan at tagumpay ay nakasalansan pala sa nakaraang buhay ng tinanghal na Miss Universe Philippines ang napakakulay niyang buhay. Pinanday pala sa kahirapan si Rabiya Mateo, ang ipinagmamalaking anak ng Iloilo. Literal na pagdarahop ang inabot nilang mag-iina nang bigla silang iwan ng kaniyang amang Bombay. Pero hindi sila nawalan ng pagasa, wala sa kanilang bokabularyo ang pagsuko. Iginapang ng kaniyang ina ang edukasyon nilang magkapatid. Nagtapos si Rabiya na nakadekorasyon ang mga medalya sa kaniyang dibdib mula sa elementarya hanggang sa kolehiyo. “Natutulog po ako sa banig. Pumapasok na konting-konti lang ang baon. Hindi po ako nahihiyang sabihin na nangungutang ang mommy ko para lang makapagaral kami ng kapatid ko. “‘Yung literal na bagyo, naranasan din po namin, ‘yun nu’ng panahon ng Yolanda. Ang kubo po namin, tumagilid. Nasalanta po kami. “Dumaan man kami sa sobrang kahirapan. Kinapos man kami dahil iniwan kami ng dad ko. Hindi po ako nagtago ng galit sa puso ko. Nagkaroon naman po ng kapalit ang mga pinagdaanan ko,” litanya ni Rabiya Mateo sa panayam sa kaniya ni Jessica Soho. Napakapositibo ng kaniyang pananaw. Ramdam na ramdam sa kaniyang pagsasalita ang mabuti niyang puso. Ang tanging hiling niya ngayon ay ang makaharap ang kaniyang ama na balita nila’y doktor at naninirahan sa Chicago, USA. Naiiyak niyang mensahe sa kaniyang ama, “Ako po si Rabiya, ang anak n’yo. Miss Universe Philippines po ngayon.” Haaaay, buhay. *** Dahil sa kagandahan ng puso ni Alden Richards ay may mga nagtutulak sa kaniya para kumandidatong mayor
ng kanilang bayan sa Laguna. Ang tulad daw ng sikat na aktor ang kailangang magkaroon ng posisyon sa pamahalaan. Hindi man nagsasalita si Alden ay lumalabas din ang magagandang aksiyon na ginagawa niya, hindi lang para sa kanilang mga kababayan kundi maging sa marami pang ibang kababayan nating sinasalanta ng kalamidad. Pero mukhang malayo sa bituka ni Alden ang mundo ng pulitika. Napakalayo. Sapat na para sa kaniya ang magbigay ng tulong sa mga nangangailangan. At naku! Wawasakin ng pulitika ang malinis na pangalan ng Pambansang Bae. Kung sa pagiging artista pa nga lang ay mayroon nang mga nanghihila sa kaniya pababa, kahit wala namang sapat na dahilan, paano pa kapag pinasok niya ang mundo ng pagseserbisyo-publiko? Sabi ng kaibigan naming propesor, “Huwag na huwag siyang papasok sa politics! Mawawasak si Alden du’n! Kapag walang nakitang butas sa magandang pangalan niya, e, gagawa ng butas ang mga kalaban niya para lang siya ibagsak! “Tama na ang pag-aartista niya. Tutal naman, e, para na rin siyang politician sa pag-ayuda niya sa mga nangangailangan!” madiing paalala-opinyon ni prop. Totoo naman. Tama nang marami siyang pinasasayang See CRISTY p13
• Rabiya Mateo, Miss Universe Philippines 2020 • Alden Richards, may nagtutulak para kumandidatong mayor ng Laguna? • Vice Ganda at Direk Bobet Vidanes, nag-plastikan lang pala? • DepEd, inalat sa kagagawan ng isang guro. Lea, Angel, pumalag! • Derek Ramsay, pinakakain ngayon ng ampalaya sa social media • Angelica Panganiban, may bagong inspirasyon • Jinkee Pacquiao, nasa gitna na naman ng kumukulong tubig ngayon • KC at Gabby Concepcion, nagkita. Sharon... walang dapat ika-insecure • Charice a.k.a. Jake Zyrus, dedma sa panawagan ng lola Tessie niya • Piolo Pascual, sa U.S.A. magpa-Pasko kasama ng pamilya • April Boy Regino, pumanaw na
Rabiya Mateo
Alden Richards
Andrea Torres & Derek Ramsay
Piolo Pascual
Charice Pempengco a.k.a. Jake Zyrus
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020
Angelica Panganiban
Jinkee Pacquiao
KC Concepcion, Gabby Concepcion & Sharon Cuneta
Lea Salonga
Angel Locsin
April Boy Regino
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020
PILIPINO EXPRESS
PAGE 11
Isang Puso Ngayong Pasko This year has been exceptionally challenging for us, Filipinos. We have braved the effects of the Taal Volcano eruption, the global pandemic, and most recently, the onslaught of typhoons Rolly and Ulysses. As 2020 draws to a close, GMA Network ushers in the holiday season by with its Christmas Station ID, Isang Puso Ngayong Pasko. The Kapuso Network’s campaign features its various artists and news and public affairs personalities expressing their sincerest gratitude to everyone who extended their hand to those in great need, most especially to the front-liners who continue to help fellow Filipinos battle the COVID-19 pandemic, the first responders who rushed to the scenes of devastation to rescue and evacuate those in peril, and to Filipinos who opened their hearts in their own simple ways. The station ID shows the Kapuso artists’ several initiatives to help and uplift the spirits of their kababayans – many of them distributed food for the frontliners such as couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera who even prepared the meals herself. Alden Richards donated food from his restaurant. Dennis Trillo and Jennylyn Mercado contributed essential supplies for the front-liners. The Eat Bulaga dabarkads gave 3D printing machines for PPE production. Heart Evangelista provided tablets for students to use in remote learning. Willie Revillame gave generous donations to jobless jeepney drivers and to the people of Catanduanes. Many others also extended help in their own meaningful ways. The Network, through GMA Kapuso Foundation, provided aid to the medical front-liners and Filipino families in need. Watch GMA Network’s 2020 Christmas Station ID on GMA’s official Facebook and YouTube accounts, or on the official website www.gmanetwork.com.
Alden Richards
Marian Rivera & Ding Dong Dantes
Dennis Trillo & Jennylyn Mercado
Carla Abellana & Tom Rodriguez
Gabbi Garcia & Khalil Ramos
Ai Ai De las Alas
Heart Evangelista
Julie Ann San Jose
Lovi Poe
Vicky Morales
Mel Tiangco
Jessica Soho
PAGE 12
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020
Erich’s La Vida Lena ABS-CBN’s newest original series La Vida Lena has entered the top ten most watched shows on iWantTFC with only two episodes. La Vida Lena, which drops new episodes every Saturday, stars Erich Gonzales, Kit Thompson, and Agot Isidro. Fans have called the series “telenovela-like,” while also praising Erich’s chemistry with her leading men, and the acting performances of Erich and the villains played by Agot, Sofia Andres, and Raymond See ERICH p13
Erich Gonzales & Kit Thomson
ABS-CBN launches new iWantTFC streaming service ABS-CBN has launched the bigger and better iWantTFC, the home of Filipino stories and the first Filipino streaming service available worldwide. With the new and bigger iWantTFC streaming service, users will be able to watch the exclusive premiere of advanced episodes of ABS-CBN teleseryes such as FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano, Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin, “Walang Hanggang Paalam, and Bagong
Umaga, 48 hours before they air on any ABS-CBN platform or channel with an option to enjoy viewing them without ads. Filipinos from all around the world can also watch La Vida Lena, ABS-CBN’s newest teleserye starring Erich Gonzales, exclusively on iWantTFC. The show streamed its first episode on Saturday, November 14, as select fans See iWANT p13
Ikaw ang Liwanag at Ligaya ABS-CBN released the lyric video of Ikaw Ang Liwanag at Ligaya on November 27, ahead of the premiere of the 2020 ABSCBN Christmas ID on Tuesday, December 1 after TV Patrol. The song features the voices of 20 Kapamliya artists and the lyric video shares an inspiring message around the world this Christmas with various translations of liwanag and ligaya. Some of the featured languages include Waray, Kapampangan, Maguindanao, Italian, Korean, and Arabic, among others. Adding sparkle to the song are Regine Velasquez-Alcasid,
Ogie Alcasid, Morissette Amon, Bamboo, Janine Berdin, Darren Espanto, Vice Ganda, Sarah Geronimo, Toni Gonzaga, Jona, Moira, Martin Nievera, Elha Nympha, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Inigo Pascual, Angeline Quinto, Lea Salonga, Erik Santos, KZ Tandingan, and Gary Valenciano. Robert Labayen and Love Rose De Leon wrote the Christmas song with music by Thyro Alfaro. Ikaw Ang Liwanag at Ligaya was first seen on iWantTFC and viewers can also watch it on the YouTube channel and Facebook page of ABS-CBN Entertainment.
Erich Gonzales & Carlo Aquino
Erich Gonzales & JC De Vera
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020
ERICH... From page 12 Bagatsing. User @maeconguzman posted on Twitter, “I want more of #LaVidaLena. It only airs one episode per week. @ DreamscapePH productions are really nice. The cinematography, the directors are great, especially the cast! Kudos to all you. More episodes please.” @gerard_JD also loved the episodes so far and said, “Great story. The cast fit their roles perfectly. The OST gives good vibes, it has Mexicanovela feels.”
iWANT... From page 12 from different countries joined its global fancon and got to interact with the whole cast online. iWantTFC will also add more new and upcoming originals to its catalogue soon, including Bawal Lumabas with Kim Chiu, Kyle Echarri, and Franchine Diaz, Hoy Love You featuring the love team reunion of Roxanne Guinoo and Joross Gamboa, I Can Wait Forever with Loisa Andalio and Ronnie Alonte, He’s Into Her with Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano, and Ampalaya Chronicles: Me & Mrs. Cruz, the latest episode in the heartbreak-themed anthology
CRISTY... From page 10 kababayan natin sa maganda niyang pakikitungo at sa nagiging mapagkumbaba. Hindi na niya kailangan pang maupo sa anumang posisyon ng gobyerno. Walang pakialam namang komento ng apo ng aming kaibigan, “Basta! Panonoorin ko ang concert niya sa December 8. Virtual concert ‘yun, malayo siya sa akin, pero parang pinanonood ko pa rin siya sa mismong venue!” *** Ang buong akala ng publiko ay magkasundung-magkasundo si Vice Ganda at ang direktor nila sa It’s Showtime na si Direk Bobet Vidanes. Nagpupurihan pa sila sa himpapawid, nagbibiruan. Mayroon pa silang pasumpasumpa na wala silang iwanan hanggang sa dulo ng laban. Pero ngayong nagbitiw na bilang direktor ng noontime show ang direktor at lumundag na sa Brightlight Productions ay naglitawan na ang mga kuwento tungkol sa dalawa. Litanya ng isang source na nakakasaksi sa pagpaplastikan ng direktor at ng bumibida sa show, “Matagal nang nabubuwisit si Direk Bobet kay Vice dahil parang nababalewala na siya sa show. “Apat kasi ang nag-a-approve ng mga segments, si Direk Bobet ang pangatlo at ang final approval, kay Vice. Ramdam ni Direk Bobet na binabaril ni Vice ang aprubado nang mangyayari sa show. “Si Vice na ang nasusunod. Nawawalan na siya ng boses sa show, kaya matagal na siyang inis na inis kay Vice! Nagkakatawanan
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS
“The storytelling, cinematography, and the songs used are all great. Most of all, the entire cast is excellent. They really delivered in the first episode. Walang tapon,” post ni @JN_Hanley08. Sabi naman ni @ KIKOMARTIR, “Hoping that this is the beginning of international quality of TV series here in PH! Congrats @DreamscapePH @ iwanttfc @ABSCBN! Excellent!” Standard and premium subscribers can watch new episodes of La Vida Lena every Saturday at 6:00 p.m. the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) or on iwanttfc.com. series starring Beauty Gonzalez and Kiko Estrada. Users are also able to watch new movies released by CineXpress straight on the platform such as Star Cinema’s My Lockdown Romance, Boyette, and Four Sisters Before the Wedding. Fans can also continue to follow the ongoing season of The House Arrest of Us on iWantTFC. Users in the Philippines, meanwhile, can enjoy free ondemand streaming of the latest episodes of currently airing ABSCBN shows within seven days. They can also look forward to the Philippine-exclusive streaming of Thai series Theory of Love and The Shipper this year. nga sa production, e. “Parang okey na okey sila, pero nagpaplastikan lang naman! Kilala n’yo naman si Vice, kapag ayaw ka niya, e, parang hangin ka lang. Ubod nang yabang si Vice Ganda! “E, mayabang din naman si Direk Bobet, kaya ang tuksuhan, galit daw ang magnanakaw sa kapuwa niya magnanakaw! Pareho naman silang mayabang, pero hindi sila nagkakasundo!” impormasyon ng aming source. Ayon kay Direk Bobet Vidanes ay kaniya raw ang kabuuang konsepto ng It’s Showtime. Sila raw ni DJ MOD ang nagbalangkas ng noontime show, pero kinokontra ‘yun ng mga kunektado sa programa. Patuloy ng aming source, “Nu’ng sumikat ang Aldub, wala na talaga, bagsak na bagsak ang rating ng show, malapit na silang magsara! “Huwag angkinin nina Vice Ganda at Direk Bobet na utak nila ang dahilan ng pagbangon ng show! TNT ang nasalba sa kanila, Tawag Ng Tanghalan, buong production ang nag-isip nu’n!” Bilang consultant daw ang magiging posisyon ng lumipat na direktor sa Lunch Out Loud. Balita ring siya na ang magdidirek ng noontime show na sinimulan at pinagsunugan ng kilay ng team ni Direk Bjoy Balagtas na mula naman sa kampo ni Direk Johnny Manahan. Teka lang muna, mukhang hindi naman magiging parehas para sa mga taong nag-isip, nagsikap na buuin ang Lunch Out Loud kung biglang si Direk Bobet Vidanes na ang hahawak ng pagkakapitan ng programa.
PAGE 13
Kit Thomson & Erich Gonzales
Jodi Sta. Maria, Maricel Soriano, Iza Calzado & Sam Milby Sino ba ang dapat pagkatiwalaan? Ang mga taong tumulong sa Brightlight Productions para ipanganak ang Lunch Out Loud o ang taong nangiwan sa lumulubog nilang barko? *** Inaasinan talaga sa alat ang departamento ng edukasyon. Sunud-sunod ang mga pagpansin sa kanila ng publiko na kailangan nilang lapatan ng tugon. Pagkatapos silang bulabugin ng international performer na si Lea Salonga sa inilabas nilang module na tinawag na ostrich ang nakalarawang owl ay heto na naman ang isa pa. Hindi pa man nakababangon ang DepEd sa kapalpakang ginawa ng isang guro sa pamimintas at pangba-body shame kay Angel Locsin ay may bago na namang sasagutin ngayon ang departamento sa ayaw nila at sa gusto. Sa isang learning module ay nakasaad, multiple choice ‘yun, “Ang tattoo ay simbulo ng A. pagiging kriminal, B. pagkaalipin, C. kagitingan at kagandahan, D. pagiging mababa ng katayuan sa lipunan.” Sa key answer ng module ay A ang sagot. Ang pagkakaroon ng tattoo ay simbulo ng pagiging kriminal. Pinalagan ni Lea Salonga ang key answer, may tattoo lang ang tao ay kriminal na agad-agad, at mas kinontra ‘yun ng mga kababayan nating naniniwala na ang tattoo ay isang sining. Art. Paltos na ay napakamapanghusga pa ng mga ipinakakalat na learning modules ng mga gurong nagbabalangkas ng mga impormasyon para sa mga
kabataang Pilipino. Galit na galit ang mga kilala naming tattoo artists. Oras nga naman ang binibilang bago nila mabuo ang obra sa katawan ng kliyente nila, pero ang interpretasyon lang pala sa kanilang sining ay simbulo ng pagiging kriminal? Mapagpahalaga kami sa sining. Nirerespeto namin ang angking talento ng mga pintor, artista, mang-aawit at marami pang ibang linya. Dugo, pawis at luha ang kanilang ipinupuhunan bago sila makabuo ng kanilang obra. Ibig bang sabihin, lahat ng mga tao sa buong mundo na nagpa-tattoo ay maituturing nang kriminal, nakapatay na, nanggahasa, nagnakaw sa kaban ng yaman ng pamahalaan para ituring na kriminal? Kailangang mabigyan ng leksiyon ang gurong nagpakalat ng learning module na ang tattoo ay simbulo ng pagiging kriminal. Sila ang dapat bigyan ng module para maihiwalay nila ang impormasyon sa panghuhusga – ng kagandahang-asal sa kabastusan. May ilang guro na inaapuntahan ng pagkainis sa mga estudyanteng may kahinaan ang ulo. Kinakapos sila sa pangunawa na kaya nga sila tinawag na titser ay para linangin ang murang isip ng mga kabataan. Paano naman kapag ganiyan na ni hindi nga alam ng gurong gumawa ng learning module ang pagkakaiba ng itsura ng ostrich sa kuwago? Ano ang itatawag natin sa kanila? ***
Oo nga naman. Napakagaling lumusot ni Derek Ramsay sa mga kontrobersiyang kinapapalooban niya sa pakikipagreslasyon. Siya pa ang lumalabas na tagapagtanggol ng mga babaeng kinarelasyon niya pero hindi naman pinakakasalan. Sagot siya nang sagot sa mga namba-bash sa kaniya. Ipinagtatanggol niya ang mga babaeng binibira. Napakagasgas na ng kaniyang linyang, “She is a great woman.” Nagamit na niya ‘yun kay Solenn Heussaff, kay Angelica Panganiban, kay Joanne Villablanca at ngayon naman kay Andrea Torres. Hindi siya nagbibigay ng interbyu para linawin ang pakikipaghiwalay niya, pero kapag may mga namba-bash sa kaniya, du’n siya sagot nang sagot. Natatawang komento ng kaibigan naming propesor, “Di ba naman, para siyang knight in shining armour sa pagtatanggol sa mga nakakarelasyon niya? Siya ang dumedepensa, otra sagot siya agad, pinangangaralan pa niya ang basher! “Kung talagang ayaw niyang mag-comment dahil sagrado raw sa kaniya ang relasyon, e, di i-block na lang sana niya nang i-block ang mga namba-bash sa kaniya? “Napakadali namang gawin nu’n, kesa naman sa kunwari, e, ipinagtatanggol pa niya ang babaeng nakahiwalay niya!” inis na komento ni prop. Si Derek Ramsay ang pinakakain ngayon ng ampalaya at pinalulunok ng apdo sa social See CRISTY p14
PAGE 14
OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020
Cancer patients are more than just numbers by Lucille Nolasco When people talk about cancer, there is a tendency to talk in generalities. Some even avoid talking about this sombre and heart-breaking topic. But for people who actually know someone, or if they themselves have been diagnosed with the illness, there is no way to avoid its devastating consequences. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, cancer is the leading cause of death in Canada and is responsible for 30 per cent of all deaths. It is estimated that in 2020, 115,800 Canadian men will be diagnosed with cancer and 44,100 will die from it, while 110,000 Canadian women will be diagnosed and 39,300 will die from cancer. Lung, breast, colorectal and prostate cancer are the most commonly diagnosed types of cancer in Canada – excluding non-melanoma skin cancer. In Manitoba there were 11,899 Manitobans who were diagnosed with cancer in 2016, the most recent data provided on the CancerCare Manitoba website.
CRISTY... From page 13 media. Matindi ang paghusga sa kaniya. Mayroon kasing pinanggagalingan ang mga nakamasid. Maraming beses na siyang nagkarelasyon pero wala pa rin siyang pinakakasalan. Nu’ng maging sila ni Andrea Torres ay ipinagtanggol niya si Joanne Villablanca sa pagiging single mom. Ngayon namang hiwalay na sila ni Andrea ay ipinagtatanggol din niya ang dalaga sa bintang ng iba sa pagiging asyumea. Di ba naman, dakila pa rin si Derek Ramsay, hindi siya nagsasalita ng anumang ikasisira ng nakahiwalay niyang karelasyon? Sabi uli ni prop, “Regalo talaga siya ng langit sa mga kababaihan
One of those Manitobans is 41-year-old Maples resident, Krista Bodnaruk. This is her story. PE: What was your first reaction when you were diagnosed with breast cancer? KB: Disbelief. I was 33. I couldn’t believe that it could have happened to someone my age. The second time I was diagnosed it was something I couldn’t believe, again. How did this happen to me? PE: Did you tell your family right away? How did they react? KB: My husband and I had just started dating three months prior to me finding the lump. So our relationship was fast tracked. I have always been very open and honest in what we are dealing with. So I did tell my family when I wrapped my head around it. I feel that it’s important for my family to know. The support we got from them was amazing. PE: How did your diagnosis change your day-to-day life? KB: It’s changed everything. People look at you differently. It’s an incredibly difficult thing to deal with. PE: How helpful was CancerCare Manitoba to you and
other patients? KB: I am very fortunate that I have an amazing support system. But not everyone has that. So, thankfully, there are programs that people can access – unless the government is planning on cutting more services. PE: Now that the Seven Oaks CancerCare has closed, as well as in the other places you used to go to, where do you go for treatment now? KB: I will go to [the Health Sciences Centre]. I was at [Victoria General Hospital]. PE: There was a virtual public town hall organized by Save the Seven Oaks ER Coalition. How did that go? Were there any concrete plans or actions to be taken with regards to the petition? KB: I feel that the town hall went well. People could put faces to stories. PE: Anything else you would like to impart to our readers? KB: This is an unfortunate situation. It is putting my life at risk. The doctors and nurses are amazing but there is only so much they can do. For more information visit cancercare.mb.ca
sa lupa! Very protective siya, ipinaglalaban pa niya ang girl sa mga bashers! Enjoy na enjoy siya sa pagsagot, siya kasi ang man of the hour!” Butas ng karayom ang kailangang lusutan ni Derek Ramsay sa hindi pagpapakasal sa mga nagiging karelasyon niya. *** Non-showbiz ang napapabalitang bagong nagbibigay ng inspirasyon ngayon kay Angelica Panganiban. Isang negosyante ito na may mataas na posisyon sa isang pangyayamaning industriya. Gregg Homan ang pangalan ng lalaking nagpapaganda raw ng bawat gising ngayon ng magandang aktres. Isang simpleng mensahe lang sa social media ang naging susi kung bakit nalantad ang kanilang pagkakamabutihan.
Pinauuwi na ni Angelica ang lalaki na sumagot naman ng ilang araw pa at uuwi na ito. Ganu’n lang at marami nang naging masaya para sa magaling na aktres. Totoo ang mga komento na panahon na para makakita ng lalaking mamahalin niya at magmamahal sa kaniya si Angelica. Mahaba na ang ibinibiyahe ng kaniyang buhay na wala siyang karelasyon. At tama, mas makabubuti nga sigurong hindi artista ang maging karelasyon niya. Mas magiging tahimik kung pribadong lalaki ang pipiliin ni Angelica sa pagkakataong ito. Ilang beses na siyang sumubok sa puro artista, pero palagi siyang bigo. Baka sakaling sa isang hindi artista niya makita ang matagal na niyang hinahanap na kaligayahan. Isisingit lang namin ang
Krista Bodnaruk
eksena nila ni Paolo Avelino sa Walang Hanggang Paalam na napakaepektibo. Isang madramang eksena ‘yun nang makita nila ang senyal na pinatay ang kanilang anak. Digmaan ng luha ang tagpo. Napakanatural ng kanilang pagganap. Tumatawid sa manonood ang napakahusay nilang pag-arte na parang wala sila sa harap ng mga camera. Magagaleng! *** Heto na naman. Parang paulitulit na lang ang takbo ng kuwento. Makakatikim siya ng mga bira sa social media, aaray lang siya sandali, pero balik na naman siya sa dati. Nasa gitna na naman ng kumukulong tubig ngayon si Mrs. Jinkee Pacquiao. At ang masakit pa sa pagkakataong ito ay damay
ang kaniyang mister na senador at kampeong boksingero. Dati nang napag-iinitan sa social media si Jinkee dahil sa paglalantad sa kanilang kayamanan. Pandemya ngayon pero naglalabas siya ng mga retrato at video sa kaniyang IG account ng kaniyang mga luho. Ngayon naman, sa kasagsagan ng kahirapan sa mga probinsiyang sinalanta ng magkakasunod na bagyo ay lumabas ang retrato nilang mag-asawa na puro branded na naman ang suot na damit at sapatos ni misis. Si mister naman ay nag-post na “little things” lang daw ang ipinakikita nilang magasawa. May nakakilala sa background nila, ‘yun ang bahay nila sa Forbes Park na bilyon ang halaga, ‘yun daw ba ang tinutukoy ni Senador See CRISTY p17
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020
OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS
A brother’s tribute Editor’s note: Resty Taruc was also a broadcaster in Winnipeg at Radio 810 CKJS in the 1980s. He shared the following tribute to his brother Lito and message of sympathy to Lito’s widow, Hester Taruc. I, together with my wife Rose,
LITO... From page 1 Philippine Basketball Association of Manitoba, President of the Filipino-Canadian Disaster Relief Fund, Ambassador of the Philippine Nayong Pilipino Pavilion at Folklorama, President of the Philippine Heritage Week Coordinating Council, and President of the Gapan Association of Manitoba. In 2012, Lito was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for exemplary contributions to his community
our sons Mac and Donald, our relatives here in Canada and in the Philippines, wish to express our profound and deepest sympathies to you Hester and to your family. As much as we want to be there with you at this time of sorrow, we just cannot travel due to pandemic restrictions.
and to Canada as a whole. Lito’s most recent role in serving the community was as a Marriage Commissioner and Commissioner of Oaths. Lito Taruc is survived by his wife, Hester, his children Rebecca Joy (Oliver), Joseph Paul (Daniela), Jake Matthew, Jovy May, and his five grandchildren. Due to the current COVID-19 gathering restrictions, a lamay was held via live stream on Facebook on November 27 and 28. The burial was similarly live streamed on Monday, November 30.
Our hearts are deeply saddened by the loss of your husband Lito and we likewise grieve for the loss of my brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, even more. Our memories are filled with smiles and laughter from the good times we shared together
as brothers over the years. I hope and pray that our families, along with our friends and relatives, can get together as we normally do to celebrate Lito’s life when the pandemic is over. Many people will be mourning his passing for he was a well-known figure in the Filipino Canadian community. He will be remembered for his community service in radio broadcasting, volunteerism, outstanding leadership and his unwavering
PAGE 15 support for the Filipino Canadian community. It has been said, “the purpose of human life is to serve, to show love and compassion, and to have the will to help others.” I truly believe that Lito successfully achieved that purpose. May God’s love be your strength and comfort at this difficult time. May he Rest In Peace and may his memory be a blessing. – Resty Taruc
PAGE 16
OUR HEALTH PILIPINO EXPRESS
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020
Mayo Clinic Q and A: Tips to prepare children for a flu vaccination DEAR MAYO CLINIC: My 5-year-old son is afraid of needles. He cries and fusses anytime we have to visit the doctor. When it’s time for an immunization or vaccination, he squirms and screams, and he has to be held down. Afterward he admits that it wasn’t so bad, but he never seems to get over his fear. Does my son need a flu shot? Can we do anything else to minimize his risk for the flu? ANSWER: It can be hard for any child to visit a health care provider, but it can be especially hard if he or she fears needles. Vaccinations are a childhood rite of passage, but they are important, as they can prevent and limit the spread of illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend flu shots for children 6 months and older to protect them, as well as their friends and family members, from the flu. Influenza is a respiratory infection that can cause serious complications, particularly in young children. Getting a flu vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu and its complications. Even when the vaccination doesn’t completely prevent the flu, it will help to prevent complications from the flu, such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis. Recent research shows that getting a flu vaccination significantly reduces the risk of dying of the flu for all children. Flu can spread by kissing, touching and holding the hands of other infected people. The germs can stay on surfaces for many hours or spread through the air when a person coughs or sneezes. The flu strain can change from year to year. Therefore,
people do not stay immunized for more than a season. It is important for people to get the flu shot each year to stay vaccinated for each flu season, which runs approximately from November to April. Getting a flu vaccination is especially important this season because the flu and COVID-19 cause similar common signs and symptoms. The flu vaccination may reduce symptoms that might be confused with those caused by COVID-19. The good news for your son is that there are two options available: a shot and a nasal mist. In your case, the nasal mist may be the best option for your son. Like the injection, the mist does not cause the flu, but side effects can occur in the initial few days after receiving the vaccination. Your son might experience a runny or stuffy nose, a mild fever, or a headache. It can be scary for any child to visit a health care provider, particularly if he or she thinks there will be something painful involved. Be honest with your child that an appointment will include a shot. Do your best to explain what will happen in advance so he knows what to expect. You also may want to prepare your son for any changes that he could see during the vaccination visit. Safety is a priority for your health care provider, so there may be significant changes to spaces and processes, including temperature screening at entrances, masking requirements and limiting the number of people in the building. Take time to explain to your son that these changes are made to create safe environments for him and all in-person visitors, just like the vaccination is meant to protect
What to do if you have any Covid-19 symptoms Anyone who develops symptoms of Covid-19 should self-isolate and visit www. manitoba.ca/covid19/ to use the online screening tool, or call Health Links–Info Santé at 204788-8200 or toll-free at 1-888315-9257 for health guidance on how to seek testing. Symptoms may include: • Cough • Headache • Fever/ chills • Muscle aches • Sore throat/ hoarse voice • Shortness of breath/ breathing difficulties • Loss of taste or smell • Vomiting, or diarrhea for more than 24 hours • Poor feeding if an infant • Runny nose • Fatigue • Nausea or loss of appetite
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye) • Skin rash of unknown cause While many people will develop only mild symptoms, some groups appear to be more vulnerable to COVID-19. Those at higher risk typically develop more serious, even fatal, symptoms such as pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome and kidney failure. High risk groups include those: • 60 years of age and older • living with chronic health conditions (e.g. diabetes, heart, renal or chronic lung conditions) • with weakened immune systems (e.g. cancer) Symptoms of COVID-19 or other coronaviruses may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure to the virus.
him from illness. Before the appointment, check in with your health care provider to confirm if the flu mist is available, as not all providers offer it. If a flu shot is the only option, ask about different options to help with discomfort, including a using an ice pack to numb the skin. Other options include pain-ease spray, numbing cream and oral sugar solution for infants. Most nursing staff should be skilled at making kids feel secure and having parents part of the process. In addition to being honest with your son about what to expect, consider bringing something to distract him, such as a favourite video or a game that you can pull up on your phone. And while I don’t always recommend a treat after a flu vaccination appointment, depending on the age of the child, an incentive — like ice cream after an appointment — can work. Depending on your health care provider, you may be able to obtain your flu shot at the same time as your son. If you cannot get your vaccination at the same time, consider taking your son with you when you do. But check with your medical clinic to ensure that this will be allowed due to restrictions related to COVID-19. Though flu season traditionally peaks in February, with December and March being the second and third most common peak months, respectively, it’s important not to delay flu vaccination. It can take up to two weeks for your body to begin to build up immunity. In addition to flu vaccination, families should maintain healthy habits to stay as healthy as possible. These habits include practicing proper hygiene, getting plenty of sleep and eating well.
Remind your son about proper hand-washing. A good rule of thumb is to wash hands for 20 seconds — about as long as it takes to sing the ABCs. Also, teach him to cover a sneeze or cough with the crook of his elbow. And do not send your child to school if he is ill. Flu symptoms may come on suddenly. Although these symptoms might seem like a cold at first, they can escalate to include fever, body aches, muscle stiffness, chills and sweats,
cough, headache, and fatigue. Since these symptoms also are shared with COVID-19, it is important for you to contact your health care provider at the first sign of illness. You can have the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. Testing may be performed to see if you have COVID-19 or the flu. — Dr. Jennifer Johnson, Family Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, Minnesota. Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020
CRISTY... From page 14 Manny Pacquiao na kasama sa “little things” lang na sinasabi nito? Siguradong alam ng magasawa ang dinaranas ngayon ng mga kababayan natin sa Marikina, sa iba pang mga bayan sa Rizal, sa Cagayan at Isabela, sa Mt. Province at sa Kabikulan. Hindi puwedeng hindi nila alam ang matinding pagdarahop ng mga sinalanta ng kalamidad. Kaya para sa mga netizens na nag-oopinyon na hindi ngayon ang tamang panahon para sa pagpapakita ng kanilang karangyaan ay may pinagmumulan. May katotohanan ‘yun. Marami pang nalalabing pagkakataon para ipagmalaki nila ang yaman na mayroon sila, pero huwag lang muna ngayon, kung kailan napakaraming nawalan ng bubong, maraming sakahan ang tinunaw ng baha, may mga buhay na naibuwis sa kalamidad at ni wala ngang makain ang mga pinahirapan ng bagyo at baha. Kontra-tiyempo ang pagpapakita nila ng mga luho. Napakalaking insulto ‘yun para sa mga nagugutom nating kababayan. Hindi naging maganda sa panlasa ng mga Pinoy ang inilbas nilang
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS
larawan. Sabi nga ni prop, “Okey, pera naman nila ‘yun, wala naman silang ninakawan o inabalang kahit sino sa pagbili ng mga branded bilang kasuotan. “Pero may tinatawag tayong tamang timing. Sa pagkanta, e, sintunado ang ganu’n, sa pagsayaw naman, e, kontra sila sa tugtog. Hindi man lang ba nila naiisip ‘yun?” *** Pinagpistahan ang kuwento tungkol sa pagkikita ng magamang Gabby at KC Concepcion. Larawan nga naman sila ng magamang parang taon ang hindi pagkikita kaya sobra nilang namiss ang isa’t isa. May pa-“I love you!” pa si KC sa kaniyang ama. At sa kuwento naman ni Gabby ay ayaw raw siyang pauwiin ng kaniyang anak pagkatapos nilang mag-bonding. Ang ganda-ganda ng kuwento, pero natural lang na may pumuna sa kanila, lalo na kay KC na parang pinasasakitan daw ang Megastar. Ano naman ang dahilan para pasakitan ni KC ang kaniyang ina? Kahit bali-baligtaran pa ang mundo, magputukan man ang lahat ng mga bulkan ay alam ni KC kung sino ang nagpala sa kaniya. Walang dapat ika-insecure si Sharon Cuneta sa pagiging malapit sa isa’t isa nina Gabby at
KC. Maganda nga ‘yan. Puwede nang bumawi si Gabby sa napakalaki nitong pagkukulang sa kaniyang anak. Lumaki at nagkaisip si KC na wala naman sa mapa ng mundo ang kaniyang ama at si Sharon lang talaga ang tumayong ama at ina niya. Walang naging pagkukulang ang Megastar sa kaniyang panganay. Trabahong-kalabaw ang ginawa ng aktres para kay KC, kaya ano ang punto para makaramdam ng insekuridad si Sharon sa matamis na pagkikita ng kaniyang mag-ama? Ang taong nakakaalam ng katotohanan, kailanman ay hindi papasukin ng inggit ang puso, tatawanan lang nito ang mga nagaganap. At alam na alam ni KC ‘yun! *** Maraming nang-uusisa sa amin kung bakit parang hindi naman pinansin man lang ni Charice Pempengco (a.k.a. Jake Zyrus) ang panawagan ng kaniyang Lola Tessie Pineda. Sa lumabas na video ng panawagan ni Nanay Tessie sa mapusong broadcaster na si Raffy Tulfo ay sinabi nito, “Charice, anak, nasaan ka na? Nakakaya mong magpakain ng ibang tao, pero ako na lola mo, hindi mo man lang mabigyan nang kahit piso!”
Matindi ‘yun, Nangungunsensiya, lalo na’t ang kaniyang lola naman talaga ang palagi niyang kasama nu’ng pasali-sali pa lang siya sa mga amateur contest. Ang unang inireklamo ng matanda ay ang kawalanghiyaan ng kaniyang anak na si Raquel, ina ni Charice. Lumayas ito sa bahay ng kaniyang anak dahil sa pambabato sa kaniya ang bote ng tubig na may yelo. Tinugunan naman ni Raffy Tulfo ang mga hiling ni Nanay Tessie. Ipagagamot ito ng matapang pero mapusong broadcaster. Bibigyan din ng pambili ng mga gamot at pangkabuhayan showcase. Pero ang reaksiyon ni Charice ang hinihintay ng ating mga kababayan. Bakit parang nananahimik lang ang magaling na singer? Kinalimutan niya na ba ang mga pagsasakripisyo ng kaniyang lola para matupad ang kaniyang mga pangarap? Isang source ang tumawag sa amin. Mayroon itong ipinaalala, “Ayaw na sigurong makihalo pa ni Charice sa problema ng lola at mother niya. Matindi ang saloobin ni Charice kay Raquel. Inilabas niya ‘yun sa librong sinulat niya, di ba? “At sa lola niya naman, hindi na rin siguro makakalimutan ni
PAGE 17 Charice ang sinabi ni Lola Tessie nu’ng mag-out na siya! Hanggang ngayon, e, nasa utak pa rin niya ‘yun. “Ang sabi kasi nu’n ng lola niya, ‘Charice, hindi mo puwedeng baguhin ang pagkatao mo. Babae ka pa rin, buwanbuwan, rereglahin ka pa rin!’ “‘Yun siguro ang dahilan kaya tahimik lang siya ngayon sa mga sentimyento ng lola niya,” napapailing na pagtatapos ng aming kausap. *** Umalis pala si Piolo Pascual noong isang araw papuntang Amerika. Doon daw siya magdiriwang ng Pasko kasama ang kaniyang ina at mga kapatid. Paano na ang Sunday show ng Brightlight Producitons na SNL? Mababawasan ng poste ang programa. Balitang sa Enero na ng susunod na taon ang balik ng singer-actor. Sabi ng aming kausap, “Every year naman kasi, basta wala siyang ginagawang project, e, talagang lumilipad siya papuntang Amerika. Nasa Los Angeles na kasi ang pamilya ng mga kapatid niya, pauwi-uwi naman dito si Mommy Amelia. “Since SNL lang naman ang pinagkakaabalahan niya ngayon, e, nag-decide siyang mag-spend See CRISTY p18
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
KROSWORD
NO. 358
Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot
PAHALANG 1. Mabibilis 8. Nagtiwala 11. Himok 14. Makakasagupa 16. Kondisyon 17. Kuwit 18. Pang-ukol 19. Istorbo 20. Saka 21. Sapi 23. Ale 25. Pinagod 28. Itulad 29. Nara 30. Himpapawid
9. Maalog 10. Sasama 12. Sagana sa likido 13. Batiin 15. Tila 22. Inapi 24. Ibigay sa iba 26. Sukat 27. Guhit
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CRISTY... From page 17 ng Christmas kasama ang family niya,” impormasyon ng aming kausap. May kuwentong kumalat na hindi raw masaya si Piolo sa SNL. Parang napipilitan lang siyang gawin ang show, bilang respeto sa kaniyang mentor na si Direk Johnny Manahan. Isa pang dahilan ay napahiwalay siya sa kaniyang mga kaibigang regular sa ASAP Natin ‘To. Ilang dekada na kasi silang magkakasama at nakabuo na sila ng magandang samahan, na pinahahalagahan ni Piolo. Pero medyo naguluhan kami sa isang kuwentong sinabi ng aming source. Nagpaalam din daw si Piolo sa mga ehekutibo ng ABS-CBN. Nag-iwan siya ng salita na babalik lang siya dito kapag mayroon nang project sa kaniya ang network. Kapamilya pa rin pala si Piolo Pascual. Hindi pa siya nagpapaalam sa istasyon. Anumang oras ay babalik pa rin siya kapag may nakahanda nang trabaho para sa kaniya ang network. Napakalaki naman kasi ng utang na loob niya sa ABS-CBN. Ang network na ipinasarado ang naging tahanan niya nang ilang dekada na ngayon, hindi niya ‘yun basta-basta maitatapon. Maganda ang ginawa ni Piolo. Hindi siya nagsunog ng tulay na tinawiran niya nang mahabang panahon. Marunong tumanaw ng utang na loob ang papa ng bayan. *** Pumanaw na ang Jukebox Idol na si April “Boy” Regino sa edad na limampu’t siyam noong ika28 ng Nobiyembre, nang alas tres nang madaling-araw. Iniwan ng matagumpay na singer ang kaniyang misis na si Madel de Leon-Regino at ang kanilang mga anak na sina JC
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020 at Charmaine na nasa Amerika ngayon, kasama ang pamilya nito. Acute respiratory at kidney disease stage 5 ang dahilan ng kaniyang pagyao. Itinakbo si April Boy ng kaniyang misis at anak na si JC sa Metro Hospital sa Antipolo noong Sabado nang hapon dahil sa hirap sa paghinga. Isang emergency dialysis ang kailangang gawin dahil sobrang taas na ang kaniyang creatinine. Kuwento ng kaniyang misis na si Madel, “Ang palagi niyang sinasabi sa akin, ang kalooban ng Diyos ang magaganap. Napakatindi ng pananampalataya niya nitong mga huling taon na maysakit na siya. “Naligtasan niya ang prostate cancer noong 2008. Nasa Amerika pa kami noon. Umayos ang kundisyon niya. Pumipila kami noon sa ospital sa Amerika para sa pagpapa-check-up niya. “Nandoon na kami nang madaling-araw, nakapila kami, napakaginaw, pero tinitiis namin ‘yun. Hanggang sa umuwi na nga kami dito at nakakapag-show pa siya,” pag-alala ni Madel. Maraming pinagdaanang paghamon ang tinaguriang Jukebox Idol. Noong gumaling na ang kaniyang prostate cancer ay tumindi naman ang kaniyang diabetes. Sa kaniyang pagpanaw ay umabot sa 854 ang taas ng kaniyang creatinine. “Ang palagi po niyang sinasabi sa amin ng mga anak niya, ‘Pinagaling ako noon ng Panginoon, pagagalingin Niya pa rin ako ngayon.’ Puro ang pananalig po sa Diyos ang sinasabi niya kahit alam kong hirap na hirap na siya. “Ako na po ang naging tungkod niya nang tatlong taon. Hindi na po kasi siya nakakakita. Gumanda man ang vision niya paminsan-minsan, nakakabanaag lang siya nang kaunti. “Di po ba, ikinukuwento niya sa inyo na kailangang itim ang
pinggan niya kapag kumakain siya para nakikita niya ang laman ng plato? “Hanggang sa noong 2015, hiniling niya sa akin na putulan ko ang buhok niya dahil nahihirapan na siya. Alam po natin kung gaano niya kamahal ang mahaba niyang buhok. “Tatak po niya ‘yun. Packaging niya, pero iyak ako nang iyak noong sabihin niyang magpapaputol na siya ng buhok dahil hirap na hirap na siya,” humahagulgol na pag-alala ni Madel. Sa mga huling sandali ng buhay ng Jukebox Idol ay palagi niyang ihinahabilin kay Madel ang kanilang mga anak at apo. “Palagi po niyang ihinahabilin sa akin sina JC at Charmaine, saka ang apo namin. Pero sabi niya, hindi siya pababayaan ng Panginoon. Pagagalingin pa rin siya. “Dapat po, e, gagawin na nang ala una nang madaling-araw ang emergency dialysis niya, pero habang naghihintay kami, nakita ko na po ang matinding paghihirap ni April. “Lumalabas na po ang dila niya. Hirap na hirap siyang huminga, hanggang sa i-revive po siya ng mga doktor. Ten times lang dapat, pero sabi ko, gawin pa naming twelve, baka sakaling mabuhay pa siya. Pero talagang hanggang doon na lang po ang buhay niya. Wala na po si April,” humahagulgol na kuwento ng una at huling pag-ibig ng Jukebox Idol. Poste ng mundo ng musika si April “Boy” Regino. Hindi malilimutan ng sambayanang Pilipino ang mga pinasikat niyang piyesang Di Ko Kayang Tanggapin, Umiiyak Ang Puso, Paano Ang Puso Ko, Esperanza, Yeye Bonel, Di Na Ako Iibig Pang Muli, Kahapong Nagdaan, Tanging Hiling, at marami pang iba. Pandemya ngayon, susunod ang pamilya ng namayapang Jukebox Idol sa mga health protocol, pero kailangang ibigay ni Madel at ng kanilang mga anak ang hiling ni April Boy. “Sa Idol Star po namin siya ibuburol, malapit lang po sa bahay namin sa M.H. Del Pilar sa Calumpang, Marikina. Para naman po madalaw siya sa huling pagkakataon ng mga kasamahan at kaibigan niya at ng mga supporters niya na hindi bumitiw sa kaniya hanggang sa huli,” impormasyon ng nagluluksang si Madel. Paalam sa Jukebox Idol na nagbigay ng kaligayahan sa ating mga kababayan sa pamamagitan ng kaniyang mga walang kamatayang awitin. Mapayapang biyahe, Jukebox Idol, April “Boy” Regino. – CSF
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
DECEMBER 1 - 15 , 2020